World Social Forum of Sri Lanka 2008

World Social Forum of Sri Lanka 2008

An incredibly uplifting forum was held on Saturday 26^th January in Vihara Mahadevi Park, Colombo, coinciding with other actions and mobilisations around the world. The central theme was that ‘Another world is possible!’ It was open to anyone as a free space for reflexive thinking, democratic debate of ideas, formulation of proposals, free exchange of experiences and an interlinking for effective action (WSF 2008 Programme). Many groups and movements came together, including the Green Movement to unite on three fronts:

Ø to affirm our opposition to the war that has torn apart our country for almost 25 years, militarising society and traumatising communities

Ø to affirm our opposition to the economic policies that burden our people raising the price of essential goods to unaffordable levels, destroying livelihoods and impoverishing the poor

Ø to resist capitalist globalisation and the development model that imposes on our country bringing enormous costs to the environment and the poor and benefits only a tiny minority (WSF 2008 Programme).

Many organisations gathered to share information and had creative workshops spreading awareness. There were so many themes, such as women and peace, the housing crisis, the rising cost of living, protecting livelihoods, the conflict, environmental costs of development and peacebuilding. The media unit of the Green Movement set up a tent where 9 short films and videos were screened. These videos touched upon crucial issues such as the oil crisis, global warming, energy efficiency and work that our organisation has been involved with. We had a very tangible presence, with huge banners created by our talented photographers capturing scenes of Sri Lanka strung out across a massive banyan tree and the stadium. Our green brigade volunteers were there, cycling through the stadium, park and main road with flags and banners with powerful messages. We also had the pleasure of a group of veddha’s with whom we work, who joined us for the day, playing music and doing a cultural performance outside the tent. It was a very successful day that created much positive feedback on the work we are doing and the work we will continue to do with likeminded people.